Romit Seth | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Editorial Board Member

Published on by Young Scientists Awards

Dr. Romit Seth | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Editorial Board Member

North Carolina State University | United States

Dr. Romit Seth contributions span advanced plant physiology, stress biology, functional genomics, and transcriptome-driven discovery aimed at understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying plant defense, metabolic biosynthesis, and trait evolution. Investigations into Camellia sinensis have revealed candidate genes associated with blister blight resistance, providing insights into pathogen perception, defense signaling, and transcriptional reprogramming using high-resolution RNA-seq approaches. Spatial transcriptomic analysis in Trillium govanianum identified key regulatory genes involved in the biosynthesis of steroidal saponins, offering a systems-level view of tissue-specific metabolic pathway organization and potential targets for metabolic engineering of high-value phytocompounds. Population genomics studies in carrot uncovered genetic signatures of domestication and improvement, clarifying the evolutionary origin of high-carotenoid orange carrot varieties through genome-wide analyses of selection sweeps, allele diversification, and structural variations linked to pigmentation. Additional transcriptional profiling in purple tea has illuminated the seasonal dynamics of anthocyanin degradation and leaf color transitions, demonstrating how environmental cues modulate pigment biosynthesis, transport, and stabilization pathways. Collectively, this body of research advances the understanding of plant metabolic networks, defense responses, and developmental regulation, while integrating genomics and bioinformatics to support crop improvement, stress resilience, and functional characterization of agriculturally and medicinally important species.

Featured Publications

Jayaswall, K., Mahajan, P., Singh, G., Parmar, R., Seth, R., Raina, A., et al. (2016). Transcriptome analysis reveals candidate genes involved in blister blight defense in tea (Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze). Scientific Reports, 6, 30412. https://doi.org/10.1038/srep30412

Singh, P., Singh, G., Bhandawat, A., Singh, G., Parmar, R., Seth, R., & Sharma, R. K. (2017). Spatial transcriptome analysis provides insights of key gene(s) involved in steroidal saponin biosynthesis in medicinally important herb Trillium govanianum. Scientific Reports, 7, 45295. https://doi.org/10.1038/srep45295

Coe, K., Bostan, H., Rolling, W., Turner-Hissong, S., Macko-Podgórni, A., et al. (2023). Population genomics identifies genetic signatures of carrot domestication and improvement and uncovers the origin of high-carotenoid orange carrots. Nature Plants. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41477-023-01489-y

Gidado M. J | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Young Scientist Award

Published on by Young Scientists Awards

Dr. Gidado M. J. l Agricultura l and Biological Sciences
| Young Scientist Award

University Malaysia Perlis | Nigeria

Dr. Gidado M. J. is a distinguished researcher in postharvest technology, food innovation, and nanotechnology, with a focus on developing sustainable solutions for fruit quality preservation and food safety. His work integrates green chemistry, biopolymer-based coatings, and hydrophobic deep eutectic solvent nanoemulsions to extend shelf life, control postharvest pathogens, and improve the physiological and biochemical quality of horticultural produce. By combining experimental, computational, and AI-driven approaches, he has advanced understanding of fruit physiology, microbial inhibition, and smart packaging systems. His research contributions include the design of nanobiocomposite films, edible coatings functionalized with bioactive compounds, and intelligent sensing platforms for real-time monitoring of postharvest quality. With over 20 publications in high-impact journals, one patent, and multiple awards for scientific excellence, Dr. Gidado has demonstrated significant impact on sustainable agriculture, circular food systems, and postharvest innovation. His interdisciplinary work bridges academia and industry, fostering eco-friendly technologies, digital biotechnology integration, and knowledge transfer for enhanced food security and preservation practices worldwide.

Profile:  Google Scholar  | Scopus | Orcid | Researchgate | LinkedIn 

Featured Publications

Gidado, M. J., Gunny, A. A. N., Gopinath, S. C. B., Ali, A., Wongs-Aree, C., … (2024). Challenges of postharvest water loss in fruits: Mechanisms, influencing factors, and effective control strategies–A comprehensive review. Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, 101249. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jafr.2024.101249

Gidado, M. J., Gunny, A. A. N., Gopinath, S. C. B., Wongs-Aree, C., Yusoff, N. H. A., … (2024). Effect of hydrophobic deep eutectic oil-in-water nano coating on the quality preservation of postharvest ‘Harumanis’ mango. Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects, 691, 133818. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.colsurfa.2024.133818

Gidado, M. J., Gunny, A. A. N., Gopinath, S. C. B., Wongs-Aree, C., Makhtar, M. M. Z., … (2023). Formulation of selective hydrophobic deep eutectic oil-in-water nanoemulsion as green fungicides for mitigating anthracnose fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. Process Biochemistry, 135, 40–49. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.procbio.2023.01.010

Gidado, M. J., Gunny, A. A. N., Sankari, R. S. A., Gopinath, S. C. B., … (2023). Delaying the ripening of banana fruit and increased storage shelf-life using hydrophobic deep eutectic oil (Menthol–Thymol)-In-Water nanoemulsion coating. International Conference on Biomass Utilization and Sustainable Energy, 13–22.

Gidado, M. J., Gunny, A. A. N., Gopinath, S. C. B., Devi, M., Jayavalli, R., Ilyas, R. A. (2025). Challenges in selecting edible coating materials for fruit postharvest preservation and recent advances in edible coating techniques: A review. Journal of Food Science and Technology, 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13197-025-07015-4

Mohamed ALOUANI | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Scholar Award

Published on by Young Scientists Awards

Mohamed ALOUANI | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Scholar Award

Mr Mohamed ALOUANI, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Ibn Zohr Un, Morocco

Mohamed Alouani is a renowned researcher and current director of multiple ongoing doctoral theses focused on the biotic and abiotic stress factors affecting Argania spinosa production, marine product bioconservation, and the valorization of medicinal plants. His expertise spans the phytochimical analysis of Moroccan flora and the use of Archaea halophiles in antimicrobial peptide production. Alouani has contributed to numerous international publications, including works on Haematococcus pluvialis and Argania spinosa, and is actively involved in the isolation of microalgae for biocontrol. His work addresses critical environmental and biological challenges, promoting sustainable agricultural and marine practices. 🌿📚🔬

Publication Profile

google scholar

Argania Spinosa Research

Mr. Mohamed ALOUANI’s research focuses on the abiotic and biotic stress factors affecting the growth of Argania spinosa (Argan tree). His work holds significant agricultural and ecological implications, particularly in sustainable farming 🌱🌍. By understanding how these stressors impact the Argan tree, he contributes to improving plant resilience and productivity. His research also addresses cost analysis for plant production, aiding in the development of more efficient and economically viable farming practices 💡💰. This work has the potential to enhance both agricultural sustainability and ecological conservation efforts, making it crucial for advancing plant-based industries 🌳📊.

Research Focus

Mr. Mohamed ALOUANI’s research focuses on Archaea halophiles for the bioconservation of marine products, demonstrating innovative advancements in marine biotechnology. His work explores the potential of these microorganisms to preserve and enhance the quality of marine-based products, with promising applications in the food industry. Through his research, ALOUANI aims to improve sustainability and extend the shelf life of marine products, offering eco-friendly solutions for the food sector. His contributions highlight the growing importance of marine biotechnology in addressing global challenges such as food preservation and environmental sustainability. 🌊🧬🌱🍤🔬

Research Supervision

Mr. Mohamed ALOUANI is deeply involved in supervising several theses, mentoring the next generation of researchers in related fields. His dedication to academia extends beyond teaching, as he provides guidance and support to students, helping them develop critical research skills. Through his supervision, he plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of research in his domain. His commitment to nurturing young talent reflects his passion for advancing knowledge and fostering innovation. 👨‍🏫📚🎓👩‍🔬

Communications Internationals

At the 4th International Biotechnology Congress in Marrakech, Morocco, held from November 14–17, 2024, several groundbreaking studies were presented. One study by Mohamed Alouani and colleagues focused on screening the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of extracts from four wild Moroccan medicinal plants 🌱. Another research, led by Azzeddine Bechar and Mohamed Alouani, investigated the effects of Dunaliella salina extracts on the adhesion of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to 3D printed polyethylene terephthalate and polylactic acid, offering potential advancements in medical materials 🧪. These studies highlight the role of bioresources in sustainable food and medical applications 🌍.

Chapter 

Mr. Mohamed Alouani contributed significantly to the 2023 book Haematococcus edited by Raja et al. His work focuses on the accumulation of astaxanthin in Haematococcus pluvialis under abiotic stress, emphasizing its potential benefits for health and industry 🌱. In another chapter, Alouani and colleagues explore the clinical applications of Haematococcus, discussing its therapeutic potential in various medical fields 🏥. Both chapters highlight the remarkable properties of Haematococcus and its valuable contributions to biotechnology, showcasing the growing interest in its applications in health and sustainability 🌍. The book is available in both print and online formats 📚.

Publication top notes

Argan (Argania spinosa (L.) Skeels) seed germination under nursery conditions: Effect of cold storage, gibberellic acid and mother-tree genotype

Viabilité et dormance des semences d’Arganier (Argania spinosa (L.) Skeels)

Pseudomonas Isolates as Potential Biofungicides of Green Mold (Penicillium Digitatum) on Orange Fruit

Effect of light on germination of Argan (Argania spinosa (L.) Skeels) seeds

Régénération de l’arganier (Argania spinosa (L.) Skeels): protocole de production de plants par semis et par bouturage et réussite de la transplantation

Viabilité et vieillissement des semences d’arganier (Arganiaspinosa (L.) Skeels

Limitations actuelles de la production et de la transplantation des plants d’arganier

Solutions rhizosphériques: Isolats de Pseudomonas contre Botrytis cinerea de la tomate